AV-TEST Product Review Report – Nov-Dec/2014

During November and December 2014 we continuously evaluated 28 home user security products using their default settings. We always used the most current publicly-available version of all products for the testing. They were allowed to update themselves at any time and query their in-the-cloud services. We focused on realistic test scenarios and challenged the products against real-world threats. Products had to demonstrate their capabilities using all components and protection layers.

Security Essentials

Version4.6
PlatformWindows 7 (SP1, 64 bit)
Report144986
DateNov-Dec/2014

Protection

Protection against malware infections
(such as viruses, worms or Trojan horses)
More information

Industry averageIndustry averageNovember December
Protection against 0-day malware attacks, inclusive of web and e-mail threats (Real-World Testing) 153 samples used 94%49.0%60.0%
Detection of widespread and prevalent malware discovered in the last 4 weeks (the AV-TEST reference set) 12,327 samples used 99%82.0%72.0%
Protection Score 0.0/6.0

Performance

Average influence of the product on computer speed in daily usage
More information

Industry averageIndustry averageNovember December
Use cases: visiting websites, downloading software, installing and running programs and copying data Number of test cases: 5 4%2s
Performance Score 5.0/6.0

Usability

Impact of the security software on the usability of the whole computer
(lower values indicate better results)
More information

Industry averageIndustry averageNovember December
False warnings or blockages when visiting websites 500 samples used 0 0 0
False detections of legitimate software as malware during a system scan 425,612 samples used 9 0 0
False warnings concerning certain actions carried out whilst installing and using legitimate software 38 samples used 0 0
False blockages of certain actions carried out whilst installing and using legitimate software 38 samples used 0 0
Usability Score 6.0/6.0

Evaluation based on a point system

All products can achieve a maximum of 6 points each in the three categories of protection, performance and usability. This means 18 points are the best possible test result.
At 10 points or higher, a product is awarded the AV-TEST seal of approval.
At 17.5 points or higher, AV-TEST also issues the "TOP PRODUCT" award. Additional details ›

   

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All tested manufacturers – listed by year/month